Not all dogs are inside dogs. Some dog owners choose to let their pets live outside. Living outside without a safe, weather proofed, spacious living area is not only dangerous it can be down right miserable for your dog.

In this article we'll discuss five ways to build your own outdoor dog kennel without breaking the bank to provide your dog with an enjoyable, safe, weather proofed, outdoor living area.

We have a lot to cover so let's dive right in...

Tip #1: Semi-Homemade Dog Kennel

Many dog owners have found it more cost effective to build onto a smaller pre-made outdoor dog kennel.

Think of it like an addition to your dog's house.

If you plan it correctly starting out with a smaller kennel then adding on by building on to the kennel can save you money in the long run.

Tip #2: Use Alternate Materials

As far as I know you don't have to use chain link or steel to build an outdoor dog kennel.

Other alternative materials are PVC, wood, and chicken wire.

Use your creativity and look around professional kennels to get ideas for your own kennel system.

Tip #3: Pre-plan for Space and Growth

Giving your dog enough room to move around and get some exercise during the day is essential to a good outdoor dog kennel set up.

Pre-plan and pre-define how much space you want to use so you know how much material you will need to effectively cover that space.

The best set ups allow the dog 20-30 feet of running room and are 10-20 feet in width.

Tip #4: Use Nylon Panels to Create Walls

If you decide to use chain link fencing to build your kennel getting some nylon panels for walls and a roof is an affordable weather proofing solution.

Nylon panels can be washed, they are breathable, and they provide protection from the sun and block the wind better than an open chain link design.

Tip #5: Designing a Cost Effective Roof

You will find there as many options for putting a roof on your kennel as there are for what to build a kennel out of.

Three proven roof solutions that are both effective and affordable are:

a) Plywood

b) Tarp

c) Canvas

In the end your outdoor dog kennel set up should be able to withstand the elements, provide your dog a safe place to sleep (adding a dog house is a good idea), keep your dog safe from strangers and other animals, and unable to escape. We don't want our best friend to get hit by a car or some other accident.